Rope choice

[Kevin]

Which climbing rope(s) resists the wear of mechanical ascenders the best?

 

[dave_spencer]

static kernmantle rope is the best choice for ascenders. It is also less bouncy and easier on the climber as well. It does not work well as a working line though. If you can afford to, use two different ropes, one to get into the tree, one to work.

Dave

[ May 31, 2002: Message edited by: dave spencer ]

 

[Kevin]

Thanks for that Dave.

 

[TheTreeSpyder]

There is trade off for low stretch of kermantle and less play on ascending. Less shock absorbtion in case of fall incident.

 

[Greenman]

Have you tried a semi static rescue line it is the best of both worlds. Tony

 

[Kevin]

Tony, which rope are you referring to, the PMI?
Who has it?

[ June 11, 2002: Message edited by: Kevin ]

 

[Greenman]

Kevin It’s a 11mm impact line available in red and black or white and black. The cost is $157.50 for 150'. You can get it from Fresco Arborist Supplies 763-559-7071

 

[John_Paul_Sanborn]

is't arbo line realy a semi-static line when compared to rock and cave supplies?

 

[Greenman]

John, yes arbo line is a semi-static.
Tony

 

[Colin]

Ropes designed as personal protective equipment are normally low stretch or high stretch. If a line is marketed as static, it is normally pre-stretched or made of a high modulus fibre such as Aramid.

The European standards for rope designed as a lifeline must meet the following:

EN 1891 - low stretch kernmantel ropes
Type A & B.

EN 892 - Dynamic mountaineering ropes.

Ropes used for work positioning (ie tree work)must comply with EN 1891 Type A.

If fall arrest is a possibility, a dynamic rope is not considered sufficient to absorb potential forces, so an energy absorber and full body harness should be worn. EN 892 is for sport use.

Because of the stringent testing involved with these standards, the EN numbers could be taken as a mark of quality. I would never recommend using a static line for working in a tree except for access with a bomb proof anchor.Always make sure that the line meets or exceeds national standards for life support, not just some piece of chandlery.

Tree ropes (single braids) are not classic kernmantle ropes but could be classed as such - just that the outer jacket has a mass of 80% with associated strength. However, Arb lines sold in the EU are still tested under EN 1891 Type A and routinely pass.